New York State Senatehttp://www.nysenate.gov/taxonomy/term/546/all?type=All
enKennedy & Panepinto Say WNY Roads Are Crumbling, More Funding Neededhttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/kennedy-panepinto-say-wny-roads-are-crumbling-more-funding-needed
<p style="text-align: left;"><em>Senators: Extra $200 Million for CHIPs Would Only Be a “Chip” Out of $5 Billion Surplus</em></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><em>47% of Local Roads in NYS In Need of Rehabilitation</em>&nbsp;</p>
<p>BUFFALO, N.Y. – Senators Tim Kennedy (D-Buffalo) and Marc Panepinto (D-Buffalo) were joined by Senate colleagues throughout the state as they called today for a major increase in state funding for local road improvements in this year’s budget, citing the effects of the harsh 2014-15 winter and New York State’s $5 billion one-time surplus. According to an October 2014 report from TRIP, a national transportation research group, only 53% of roads in New York State are rated as either “good” or “excellent,” far below TRIP’s suggested goal of 75%. Kennedy, Panepinto, and Senate Democrats are suggesting a $200 million increase in Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPs) funding, along with an extra $100 million for New York State’s Extreme Weather Program, which focuses on helping municipalities improve roads damaged by harsh weather conditions, and $200 million for Deficient Bridge Emergency Repair.</p>
<p>According to an analysis by the Senate Democratic Conference, the three proposals would create over 13,000 jobs statewide, both in temporary construction jobs, and also permanent jobs created as a result of lowered transportation costs. Likewise, the Federal Highway Administrations estimates that consumers save $5.20 for every dollar spent on road improvements, as a result of factors including reduced delays, lower vehicle maintenance costs, and improved safety. A separate study by TRIP cites nearly $5 billion in vehicle maintenance costs for New Yorkers as a result of poorly-maintained roads. When maintenance is deferred, the opposite occurs, with the Cornell Local Roads Program estimated that every $1 in deferred maintenance adding an additional $4 or $5 in future repair costs.</p>
<p>“Upstate, and specifically Western New York, are taking another beating this winter,” said Senator Kennedy,&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">a member of the Senate Transportation Committee</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">. “We cannot afford to defer maintenance on local roads and bridges once more. Study after study shows that well-maintained roads have a direct impact on the local economy. With Buffalo located 500 miles from 60% of Canada’s population and 40% of the United States’ population, totaling 147 million people, we have no shortage of reasons to make sure our roads are in top shape. As we continue budget negotiations, I urge my colleagues to join me in fighting for increased transportation funding.”</span></p>
<p>Senator Marc Panepinto said: "I am proud to echo Senator Kennedy’s call for increased investment and local bridge aid for our region.&nbsp; The call for an increase in funding is more important now than ever because, unique to us in Western New York, we have been hit by nearly 45 consecutive days of snow. Because of this, we will not know the full impact to our roads and infrastructure until it completely melts in the coming months.</p>
<p>“More funding is desperately needed given the environmental realities of this harsh winter season. I hope the Governor can give our request serious consideration as we head into budget season."</p>
<p>Kennedy worked last year with his colleagues to secure $40 million in extra local road funding, through the creation of the Extreme Weather Program, citing the poor state of local roads after the freeze-thaw effects of the “polar vortex” throughout the winter. With New York State on a more stable financial footing, Kennedy is again calling for investment in local infrastructure as the lifeblood of the local economy. According to the study by TRIP, nearly six out of every seven miles of roads in New York State are maintained by counties and municipalities, along with more than half of the state’s estimated 9,000 bridges.</p>
<p>“We need to make sure that Upstate and Western New York is seeing its fair share of this $5 billion surplus,” Kennedy added. “New York State is facing over $34 billion in local road and bridge projects over the next 15 years, this proposed increase gets us back on the right path to&nbsp; making sure those projects happen on time and on budget.”</p>
<p>The joint letter sent by Kennedy, Panepinto, and other Senators from around the state is included below:</p>
<p>February 18, 2015</p>
<p>The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo</p>
<p>Governor of New York State</p>
<p>NYS State Capitol Building</p>
<p>Albany, New York 12224</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Dear Governor Cuomo:</p>
<p>We write to express our support for a significant increase in support for local road and bridge improvements throughout New York State. Specifically, we request a $200 million increase to the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program, a $200 million allocation for Deficient Bridge Emergency Repair, and $100 million for New York’s Extreme Weather Program. Such funding would allow municipalities and counties to improve their infrastructure, helping to prevent the type of damage that has been caused by harsh winter weather the past several years, while also increasing economic activity.</p>
<p>A study by TRIP, a national transportation research group, indicates that only 53% of roads in our state are rated as either “good” or “excellent,” failing to attain TRIP’s suggested goal of 75%. This increased funding, made possible with New York State’s one-time surplus of $5 billion from a number of financial settlements, would get our localities on a more stable financial footing as they look to repave and improve their battered roads and bridges, all while saving them money in the long-term. The Cornell Local Roads Program estimates that every $1 in deferred maintenance ends up adding an additional $4 or $5 in future repair costs. This temporary increase in funding can end up saving our localities, and ultimately the state, hundreds of millions of dollars more in expenses.</p>
<p>In addition to municipal savings, this investment would both directly and indirectly create thousands of jobs throughout the state. The Senate Democratic Conference estimates that these three funding increases would ultimately create over 13,000 jobs both as a result of road and bridge construction and due to lower transportation costs for local employers. Likewise, we can expect improvements to also lower costs for consumers, with the Federal Highway Administration estimating that consumers save $5.20 for every dollar spent on road improvements, resulting from factors such as reduced delays, lower vehicle maintenance costs, and improved safety. Indeed, a separate study by TRIP cited nearly $5 billion in maintenance costs endured by New Yorkers every year as a result of poor road conditions.</p>
<p>Last year’s $40 million allocation in additional local road funding, via the Extreme Weather Program, was a boon for local governments that were struggling to keep up with the damaging effects of the freeze-thaw cycle. With that extra funding, they were able to ensure that these cratered roads were milled and repaved. This winter has once again been trying, and municipalities are again struggling to keep pace with the damage to their roads. With six out of every seven miles of road in New York maintained by a municipality or county, this is a major expense faced by governments throughout the state. New York State should take advantage of its significant surplus, and drive these funds directly back into communities.</p>
<p>This funding, we believe, would benefit local governments, our constituents, and local businesses. We look forward to continuing to work with you to find solutions that work for all New Yorkers, and we thank you for your attention to and consideration of this important matter.</p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>
<p>Senator Timothy M. Kennedy, 63rd District</p>
<p>Senator Martin Malavé Dilan, 18th District</p>
<p>Senator Velmanette Montgomery, 25th District</p>
<p>Senator Gustavo Rivera, 33rd District</p>
<p>Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson, 36th District</p>
<p>Senator Neil D. Breslin, 44th District</p>
<p>Senator Marc C. Panepinto, 60th District</p>
<p>Senator George Latimer, 37th District</p>
<p>Senator Jose Peralta, 13th District</p>
<p>Senator Kevin Parker, 21st District</p>
<p>Senator Bill Perkins, 30th District</p>
<p align="center">###</p>
<p><em>Senator Timothy M. Kennedy represents the New York State Senate’s 63rd District, which is comprised of the town of Cheektowaga, the city of Lackawanna and nearly all of the city of Buffalo. More information is available at&nbsp;</em><a href="http://kennedy.nysenate.gov/" target="_blank"><em>http://kennedy.nysenate.gov</em></a><em>.</em></p>
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BudgetTowns or CountiesTransportationVillagesWed, 18 Feb 2015 20:10:48 +0000Robert Davidson259281 at http://www.nysenate.govThe Daily News: Gallivan outlines Wyoming issues in supervisors' talkhttp://www.nysenate.gov/news/daily-news-gallivan-outlines-wyoming-issues-supervisors-talk
<p class="story-times dtstamp" style="font-size: 11px; padding-bottom: 10px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff;">Posted:&nbsp;<span class="updated" style="font-size: 11px;" title="2015-01-05T03:03:00-05:00">Monday, January 5, 2015 3:03 am</span></p>
<p class="byline" style="font-size: 11px; padding-bottom: 10px; font-weight: 700; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff;"><span class="author vcard" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="fn" style="font-size: 11px;">By Paul Mrozek&nbsp;<span style="color: #000000;">pmrozek@batavianews.com</span></span></span>&nbsp;</p>
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<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0075016021729px;">WARSAW — State Sen. Patrick Gallivan continues to try to make New York State and Wyoming County a better place to live.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0075016021729px;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">That was the message he conveyed Friday as guest speaker at the organizational meeting of the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors.</span></p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0075016021729px;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">“Positive steps were taken in 2014 to get us closer to that goal,” he said.</span></p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0075016021729px;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">Gallivan, R-Elma, has represented the 59th Senate District for the past four years. His speech on Friday touched on topics of interest to Wyoming County citizens and their elected officials, economic development, farming, education and lessen the burden caused by state-mandated spending.</span></p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0075016021729px;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">“Perhaps nothing is more important than mandate relief. And there is no bigger state mandate than Medicaid,” Gallivan said.</span></p>
<p></p></span><br />
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">Steps taken to reduce the Medicaid burden placed on counties by Albany include a cap on annual increases in county expenses, which began in 2013.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">“This year there will be no increase in the local cost. The saving to Wyoming County will be $855,000 over the next four years.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">“Statewide, the savings will be nearly $1.2 billion,” Gallivan said.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">The state budget includes an extra $8 million for agricultural initiatives such as expanded marketing, agri-tourism, preservation of family farms, Ag in the Classroom program and Young Farmers NY program, Gallivan said.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">Wyoming County received $450,000 for a new Agri-Business Center. The facility is slated to open in 2015, the senator said.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">“Our Agriculture Advisory Committee also continues to grow and plays a critical role&nbsp; in keeping me informed about issues that need our attention. Participation among our Wyoming County representatives has been excellent and I thank them for their involvement,” Gallivan said.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">One highlight of 2014 was to have State Agriculture &amp; Markets Commissioner Richard Ball attend the Wyoming County Fair.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">Gallivan said one his most important jobs in Albany is to ensure that rural, low-wealth school districts receive adequate educational funding.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">“In the 2014 budget, we succeeded in providing more money for education. The Senate fought to secure an additional $1 billion in state aid,” the senator said.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">Four school districts, Warsaw, Attica, Letchworth and Perry, received funding for school resource officers, he said.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">Other Senate highlights from 2014:</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">— Accelerated funding for reconstruction of Main Street in Arcade.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">— Legislation to expand Wyoming County Veterans Memorial Highway.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">— Approval of the use of crossbows for big game hunting.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">— Gallivan also sponsored three bills last year to repeal the SAFE Act, a state gun control law enacted in 2013.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">“The SAFE Act continues to be a thorn for law abiding citizens and I continue to oppose this law,” he said.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;">The senator, a Bergen native and former Erie County Sheriff, said his priorities for 2015 include a comprehensive review of the criminal justice system. Other goals are similar to&nbsp; 2014, economic development, regulatory reform, mandate relief, farming, education&nbsp; and transportation.</p>
<p style="font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 18px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; color: #000000;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15.0060005187988px;"><a href="http://www.thedailynewsonline.com/news/article_4d1b728a-94b1-11e4-b1f1-2bf7c14d12e2.html">http://www.thedailynewsonline.com/news/article_4d1b728a-94b1-11e4-b1f1-2bf7c14d12e2.html</a></span></span></p>
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MiscellaneousAgricultureBudgetFinanceGovernment OperationsHighwaysHunting and FishingLocal GovernmentRecreation and TourismSessionSurplusTowns or CountiesTransportationVillagesMon, 05 Jan 2015 18:29:55 +0000Keith Bryan253781 at http://www.nysenate.govChanukah is the celebration of Miracles!http://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/chanukah-celebration-miracles
<p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">"Chanukah is the celebration of miracles, a reminder that all things are possible," Senator Parker said. &nbsp;"As you celebrate the spirit of Chanukah with friends and family, I wish you health, happiness and good fortune."</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">The holiday celebrates a legendary victory of the Maccabees, a band of Jews, over a Greek army that occupied the Holy Land. &nbsp;After the battle, the victorious Maccabees found only a one day supply of oil in the temple to light the lamps. &nbsp;But the oil burned miraculously for eight days, the story says.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">Wishing you a festival of lights sparkling with fun and lit up with joy!"</span></p>
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<p>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Senator Jack M. Martins (R-7th Senate District) announced that he has secured $100,000 in state funding for community improvements in the Village of Plandome Manor.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The Village will use the state funding to help defray the costs of creating a pedestrian path along the south side of Stonytown Road from Circle Drive near the Plandome Train Station Parking lot to Manhasset Woods Road. In addition, the Village will replace the existing sidewalk with a new sidewalk on the north side of Stonytown Road leading into the Plandome Train Station parking lot. The area is widely utilized by pedestrians and joggers, and the improvements will make it safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable for residents to go walking or running.</p>
<p>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Additionally, the Village will be repairing and replacing the guardrail along North Plandome Road across from Leeds Pond and the Science Museum of Long Island. This will improve safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists along this portion of North Plandome Road.</p>
<p>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;“Stonytown Road and North Plandome Road are areas where people regularly walk and jog, and the new pedestrian path, sidewalk, and guardrails will make it easier and safer for them to do so. I am pleased to work with the Village of Plandome Manor to enhance residents’ safety and quality of life,” said Senator Martins.</p>
<p>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;“The Village of Plandome Manor is very grateful to Senator Martins for securing funding for these new improvements. Stonytown Road and North Plandome Road are widely utilized by pedestrians and joggers already, and these projects will make it even easier to do so. It will also help reduce congestion by making it easier for commuters to leave their cars at home and walk to the Plandome Train Station. All of these benefits will enhance the quality of life for our residents, and we appreciate Senator Martins’ efforts,” said Plandome Manor Mayor Barbara Donno.</p>
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VillagesTue, 02 Dec 2014 18:10:47 +0000Chris Schneider251946 at http://www.nysenate.govLegislative Notebook: State Initiatives of Interest to Veteranshttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/legislative-notebook-state-initiatives-interest-veterans
<p>Here is a partial listing of bills I have supported this session to aid New York’s former servicemen and servicewomen. These initiatives will now go to Governor Cuomo for final action.</p>
<p>-- Legislation I co-sponsored was passed by both houses (S.7839, first introduced as S.4714)) to extend the Military Service Credit Law of 2000 to all veterans who have served in the military. Right now, public employees who served in the armed forces may purchase up to three years of pension credit only if their military service occurred during specified conflicts. This measure will expand this opportunity to public employee veterans who also served their country in peacetime.</p>
<p>-- A bill was approved (S.5955) to make it clear that veterans should not be charged an additional fee if they want to receive a new driver’s license or non-driver identification card that includes a notation of their veteran status. Specifically, the measure would waive the $12.50 photo fee.</p>
<p>-- Legislation was passed by both houses (S.592) that would increase the exemption a veteran may receive on eligible real property from $5,000 to $7,500 of the assessed value. By updating the original law, which was enacted more than two decades ago, this initiative would help to make the exemption more meaningful for veterans in terms of today’s dollars.</p>
<p>-- A bill was approved by the Senate and Assembly (S.6685) which would make information about post traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury and other brain-related injuries more available to veterans and their families through the Veterans Health Care Information Program. In addition, the legislation would require the NYS Department of Corrections to report annually to the Legislature regarding the number and population of veterans who are incarcerated in local and state facilities, thereby providing information that may be used to better aid imprisoned veterans and help to prevent criminal behavior.</p>
<p>-- A technical amendment (S.4819) was approved to correct an error in a 2005 state law providing service credit for those public employees who were called to active military duty in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The earlier law inadvertently omitted members of the New York City retirement systems.</p>
<p>-- In an effort to help military families who are often relocated throughout the course of their service, legislation (S.6887) was passed by the Senate and Assembly to make it easier for the children of military families to transition into New York State schools; enable veterans who are attending New York colleges and universities under the federal GI bill to qualify for the in-state tuition rate; reform the supplemental burial allowance for veteran families whose loved ones passed away outside of a combat zone; and allow the State Department of State to accept out-of-state licenses in real estate and some other occupations that were issued to members of military families.</p>
<p>-- The Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Act, which has already been signed into law (Chapter 22), is a program that will enable companies owned by service-disabled veterans to more easily compete for lucrative state goods and service contracts. The law sets a goal of providing six percent of state contracts to eligible veteran-owned businesses and establishes a new division within the State Office of General Services (OGS) to oversee and administer the program. Last year we enacted incentives for businesses to hire veterans, and this law breaks new ground in providing new job and economic opportunities for our former armed forces members.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 15.555556297302246px; line-height: 1;">2014-2015 New York State Budget Highlights for Veterans &amp; Their Families</span></p>
<p>-- Funding for NYS Division of Veterans’ Affairs counseling services is increased by $700,000 over the Governor’s initial proposal to $2.7 million. This will help to ensure that veterans reaching out to the DVA for help receive access to all of the services and programs they need – including job assistance, mental health and substance abuse services, information about tax breaks, and many other types of aid.</p>
<p>-- A new Veteran Peer-to-Peer support and counseling pilot program is being funded through the State Office of Mental Health (OMH) at $1.9 million. The initiative will pair veterans with other former servicemen and servicewomen who may be more attuned than civilians to the challenges facing fellow members of the armed forces.</p>
<p>-- Veterans will now be included as participants in the state’s entrepreneurial support centers, which will enable former servicemen and servicewomen seeking to start their own businesses to be eligible to apply for Entrepreneurial Assistance Program (EAP) grants and technical help.</p>
<p>-- The income eligibility limit for Gold Star parents to receive an annual annuity of $500 is being lifted. Gold Star parents are those mothers and fathers who lost a son or daughter in active duty in the Armed Forces during a time of war. Annuity recipients must be New York State residents and applications may be made to the State Division of Veterans’ Affairs.</p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: center; line-height: normal;" align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">Bill Will Secure AIM Funding For Two Orange County Villages </span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, Cornwall-on-Hudson) announced today that Senate bill 7625B passed the Senate.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp; </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">This legislation makes permanent the AIM funding (Aid and Incentives for Municipalities) received by villages, towns or cities incorporated since 2005.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp; </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">Among those municipalities impacted in Orange County are the villages of South Blooming Grove and Woodbury.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">“This legislation makes permanent the AIM funding currently received by the villages of South Blooming Grove and Woodbury,” said Larkin.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp; </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">“In past years, this funding was not always allocated to newly incorporated municipalities and was subject to the arbitrary whims of budget negotiations.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp; </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">This legislation will add these municipalities to the law and ensure they receive this much-needed funding every year.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">This legislation has passed the Assembly and will be sent to the Governor.</span></p>
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BudgetLocal GovernmentVillagesMon, 16 Jun 2014 22:00:21 +0000Jennifer Downs239121 at http://www.nysenate.govSenate Passes Three Griffo Sponsored Billshttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/senate-passes-three-griffo-sponsored-bills
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">ALBANY - Sen. Joseph A. Griffo was the lead sponsor of three bills that today passed the State Senate.</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/s3907-2013">S3907</a>: Shortens the time frame – from 1 year to 60 days – in which a meeting may be called to vote on consolidation of school districts after qualified voters have not voted in favor of consolidation. The bill passed, 40-17, unofficially. A companion bill, A2735, sponsored by Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi, D-Utica, is in the Assembly Education Committee.</li>
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<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">“Consolidation can be an effective way to cut per-pupil costs while preserving all educational benefits. The state should show it supports consolidation, where practical, by limiting the wait times between votes,” said Griffo.</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<li><a href="http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/S6735-2013">S6735</a>: Extends, for five years, the banking “wild card” law, which provides a way to keep the state banking charter competitive with the federal banking charter. The bill passed, 57-0, unofficially. The companion bill, A9057, passed the Assembly on March 24.</li>
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<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">“We want to make sure that banks are not penalized for operating under a state charter,” said Griffo, who is chairman of the Senate Banks Committee. “This bill gives banks under state charter the same ability to quickly take advantage of new expanded powers and opportunities granted by federal regulators and keep them competitive. At the same time, it’s important for us to keep the sunset provision so we can ensure this bill is still appropriate when it comes up for renewal again.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">The “wild card” law has been extended several times since its original enactment in 1997. This bill would extend the sunset date from Sept. 10, 2014 to Sept. 10, 2019.</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/S6655-2013">S6655</a>: Extends, for two years, the provisions of the Oneida Indian Nation real property tax depository fund. The bill passed, 57-0, unofficially. A companion bill, A8895, sponsored by Assemblyman Brindisi, is in the Assembly Rules Committee.</li>
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<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">This bill protects Oneida County, as the guarantor of unpaid property taxes, until all property taxes are paid on most Oneida Indian Nation land. If enacted, this law would be repealed on June 30, 2016.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">The Senate passed five bills June 2 which had Senator Griffo as the lead sponsor. That legislation would provide educations to military veterans, licensing for those that work with the visually impaired and assistance to Clarkson University. The legislation would also improve transparency by setting up a “one-stop shop” for information on government programs and initiatives.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">The bills were:</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<li><a href="http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/S6720-2013">S6720</a>:&nbsp; Authorizes the Village of Norwood to enter into a lease agreement with Clarkson University for municipally owned waterfront park land. The college and a non-profit, Grateful Oars, are planning on building a boathouse on a piece of Norwood Recreation Park. The bill passed, 59-0. It passed the state Assembly June 9 and is headed to the governor for approval or disapproval.</li>
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<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">“I’m pleased to be able to assist Clarkson University and the village board with this land purchase and hope to see rowing activity coming from that area soon,” said Griffo.</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<li><a href="http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/S3554-2013">S3554</a>: Allows a Gold Star Mother to keep one distinctive license plate, for commemorative purposes only, upon surrender of such distinctive plates. The bill passed, 59-0. A companion bill, A4459, is now in the Assembly Transportation Committee.</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">“Gold Star Mothers have lost their son or daughter in sacrifice to our country,” said Griffo. “My colleagues and I were inspired by the plight of Ethel Barnes, an octogenarian who was told by the DMV that she couldn’t keep the license plate that honored her only son after she opted to stop driving. This is a small gesture of ‘thanks’ to Gold Star Mothers and a way to honor those who were lost in battle.”</span></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/S1963-2013">S1963</a>: Allows those with military service and an honorable discharge to attend classes at the State University of New York and the City University of New York on a tuition-free audit basis. The bill passed, 59-0. A companion bill, A1808, is now in Assembly Higher Education Committee.</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">“Too many veterans are struggling to find work after leaving the military. This is a low-pressure way for veterans to jumpstart a second career by giving them an opportunity to learn more about a particular subject of interest and possibly pursue an education in that field. This is the same consideration we give to individuals 60 years of age and older, and I’m pleased to help extend it to our veterans,” said Griffo.</span></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/S2233A-2013">S2233A</a>: Creates ResultsNY.gov, which would be a new single access website that provides data and statistics that allow the public to compare the state’s performance regionally and nationally in relation to the economy, education, public safety, energy, housing and the environment. The bill passed, 59-0. A companion bill, A7797, is in the Assembly Governmental Operations Committee.</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">“Transparency and feedback are the cornerstones of effective governing. This website will help the public determine if our tax dollars are being well spent and how individual government programs are addressing specific needs, both short-term and long-term. It will also give New Yorkers the opportunity to help us identify duplicative or inefficient programs and jettison them,” said Griffo.</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<li><a href="http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/S3558D-2013">S3558D</a>: Creates licensing for vision rehabilitation professionals who work with the blind or partially sighted on independent functioning at home, school, work or the community. The bill passed, 59-0. A companion bill, A3597C, is in the Assembly Higher Education Committee.</li>
</ul>
<p>“As a person becomes visually impaired – whether gradually through age or suddenly as the result of an accident – they need someone to help them learn how to adapt to their new disability. However, doctors are remiss to refer their patients to unlicensed professionals, no matter how well intended. We need a licensing system for vision rehabilitation professionals that tells patients: This person is educated, trained and accredited – and can be trusted with helping you in the next stage of life,” said Griffo.</p>
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BanksCommunity ReinvestmentContinuing EducationCUNY (City University of New York)Economic DevelopmentEducationElectionsHigher EducationLocal GovernmentSpecial ElectionsSUNY (State University of New York)Towns or CountiesVeteransVillagesTue, 10 Jun 2014 20:40:01 +0000Jude Seymour238156 at http://www.nysenate.govSenator Sanders and Senate Democratic Conference Release Minimum Wage Report and Push for Local Minimum Wage Optionhttp://www.nysenate.gov/video/2014/jun/03/senator-sanders-and-senate-democratic-conference-release-minimum-wage-report-and-p
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<p>Senator James Sanders Jr. (<strong>D-Queens</strong>) joined his fellow Senate Democratic Conference members at a press conference to announce the release of a detailed report describing the economic benefits New York State would receive from an increase to the minimum wage. Senator Sanders also called for the adoption of legislation that would allow local governments to raise the minimum wage within their municipalities.</p>
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Senator Sanders and Senate Democratic Conference Release Minimum Wage Report and Push for Local Minimum Wage Option Senator James Sanders Jr. (D-Queens) joined his fellow Senate Democratic Conference members at a press conference to announce the release of a detailed report describing the economic benefits New York State would receive from an increase to the minimum wage. Senator Sanders also called for the adoption of legislation that would allow local governments to raise the minimum wage within their municipalities. </div>
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LaborMinimum WageNew York CityTowns or CountiesVillagesTue, 03 Jun 2014 17:50:30 +0000Brandon Clarke236811 at http://www.nysenate.govSanders’ Minimum Wage Bill Right Up Governor Cuomo’s Alleyhttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/sanders-minimum-wage-bill-right-governor-cuomo-s-alley
<p>This past weekend, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo vowed to support the passage of legislation that would raise the state’s minimum hourly wage to $10.10 next year, and provide for annual increases that would be indexed to the rate of inflation.</p>
<p>This past January, New York State Senator James Sanders Jr. (D-Queens) introduced a bill (S6334) that would achieve those very aims, help to upgrade the standard of living for the state’s working poor, and spur economic growth in every county.</p>
<p>During a public hearing on the potential effect of a minimum wage increase, Sanders said the following about Governor Cuomo’s recent announcement, “It was refreshing to hear our governor propose the very bill that I had proposed some months ago…I look forward to working with him, and I think that the sooner we get to it the better.”</p>
<p>Sanders also proposed legislation (S6537) in February that would grant individual municipalities in New York the power to raise their wage floors even higher than the state level, based on the determining factors impacting each one’s residents.<span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">#####</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">The 10th Senatorial District includes: Far Rockaway, Jamaica, Rosedale, Richmond</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Hill, Rochdale Village, South Ozone Park, Ozone Park, South</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Jamaica and Springfield Gardens.</p>
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LaborMinimum WageNew York CityTowns or CountiesVillagesTue, 03 Jun 2014 15:02:28 +0000Brandon Clarke236741 at http://www.nysenate.govSenator Bonacic Secures $50,000 Grant for the Village of Otisvillehttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/senator-bonacic-secures-50000-grant-village-otisville
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">Senator John J. Bonacic announces that the Village of Otisville has been awarded $50,000 in funding from the Municipal Facilities Program.</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">Plans call for upgrades to Otisville’s Veterans Memorial Park to include new playground equipment, benches and resurfacing of the walking trail.</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">“I would like to thank Senator Bonacic for the generosity and support which he has once again shown the Village of Otisville,” said Mayor Brian Wona. “This fifty thousand dollar grant will go a long way toward the further development of our Veterans Memorial Park.&nbsp; We intend to use the funds from this grant to purchase additional playground equipment, resurface the walking trail, and add more benches around the park, as well as various other upgrades to make the park more enjoyable for our residents and our neighbors. Senator Bonacic has always shown great support for the Village of Otisville and we are very appreciative.”</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">“I am pleased to be able to help the Village of Otisville with their park upgrade which will be enjoyed by all for many years to come,” said Senator Bonacic.</span></p>
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VillagesWed, 30 Apr 2014 17:22:55 +0000Andrew Winchell231441 at http://www.nysenate.govSenator Bonacic Secures $50,000 Grant for the Village of Libertyhttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/senator-bonacic-secures-50000-grant-village-liberty
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">Senator John J. Bonacic announces that the Village of Liberty has been awarded $50,000 in funding from the Municipal Facilities Program.</span><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">The grant will provide for necessary upgrades to assist Village officials in the event of a public emergency, including a backup generator for Village Hall, emergency supplies, and mobile light towers at critical Village intersections in the event of a power outage.</span></p>
<p class="xmsonormal">“The Village of Liberty is grateful for Senator Bonacic’s support for our efforts to update Village Hall and make it a true emergency response center for our community,” said Mayor Daniel Ratner.&nbsp; “Twice in very recent history, Village Hall became a center of assistance for many residents in the Village of Liberty and even beyond, and with the funding the Senator is bringing to our community, we can make much-needed improvements that will allow us to be better equipped and prepared to come to the aid of our residents and keep them safe and healthy during times of crisis.”</p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">“I am pleased to help the Village of Liberty obtain this grant to make these important improvements to their Village Hall, and enable village officials to be as prepared as they can be in the event of an emergency,” said Senator Bonacic.</span></p>
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VillagesWed, 30 Apr 2014 16:41:24 +0000Andrew Winchell231411 at http://www.nysenate.govSenator Bonacic Secures $50,000 Grant for the Town of Libertyhttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/senator-bonacic-secures-50000-grant-town-liberty
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: center; line-height: normal;" align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">Grant money to assist with structural repairs to Town Hall</span></strong><span style="font-size: 12pt;">&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">Senator Bonacic announces that the Town of Liberty has been awarded $50,000 in funding from the Municipal Facilities Program.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;">The monies will be used to make critical repairs to the front porch and steps of Town Hall.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">"We are so pleased about this grant that will go towards much needed repairs for our Town Hall,” said Supervisor Charlie Barbuti.&nbsp; “This is a magnificent building, over 150 years old, but its support structures have lost their integrity.&nbsp; During these times when budgets are strained, and&nbsp;monies have to go to other needed services, this grant is crucial to repairing one of our town's historic gems."</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;">“I am pleased to be able to help the Town of Liberty with this much needed repair to their Town Hall, making it safe for visitors and workers,” said Senator Bonacic.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<a href="/senator/john-j-bonacic">John J. Bonacic</a> </div>
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VillagesTue, 22 Apr 2014 15:20:16 +0000Andrew Winchell230326 at http://www.nysenate.govState Budget Paves Way For Local Highway Improvementshttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/state-budget-paves-way-local-highway-improvements
<p><strong>ALBANY, 04/15/14 --</strong> State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today announced that crucial funding to support local highway improvements is included in the 2014-15 state budget. &nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>“Local roads, bridges, and culverts are the backbone of our state’s infrastructure,”</strong> said Senator Seward. &nbsp;<strong>“County and town highway superintendents from throughout my district joined me in Albany last month to call for added state funding – and their voices were heard.”</strong></p>
<p>After five years without any increase in Consolidated Highway Improvement Program (CHIPs) funding, the new budget includes a second year of record funding - $438 million – for important local highway, road, and bridge repair projects.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The 2014-15 state budget also includes $40 million in new capital funds to help localities pay for repairs related to the severe winter weather.</p>
<p><strong>“The special one-time ‘pothole fund’ is assistance local highway departments desperately need. &nbsp;Many are already dealing with budget gaps due to added salt costs and plowing related expenses incurred during the brutal winter. &nbsp;This capital funding will help crews make key spring-time fixes, without completely depleting their budget reserves or forcing them to abandon other highway improvement projects,”</strong> Seward added.</p>
<p>Local roads and bridges account for 87 percent of the roads, 52 percent of the bridges, and 48 percent of the vehicle mileage logged in New York State.</p>
<p><strong>“The added state funding meets key transportation needs and helps the dedicated men and women who maintain our local roads do so at a cost taxpayers can afford. &nbsp;Continued, consistent state support is critical to ensure motorist safety and economic vitality,”</strong> Seward concluded.</p>
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<div class="filefield-file clear-block"><img class="filefield-icon field-icon-application-pdf" alt="application/pdf icon" src="http://www.nysenate.gov/sites/all/modules/contrib/filefield/icons/application-pdf.png" /><a href="http://www.nysenate.gov/files/pdfs/Highway Funding - SD51.pdf" type="application/pdf" length="21654" target="_blank" title="Highway Funding - SD51.pdf">2014-15 CHIPS - Pothole Fund - SD51</a></div> </div>
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BudgetGovernment OperationsHighwaysLocal GovernmentTowns or CountiesTransportationVillagesTue, 15 Apr 2014 19:09:26 +0000Jeffrey Bishop229501 at http://www.nysenate.govRITCHIE: STATE BUDGET INCLUDES $2 MILLION IN WINTER STORM RELIEF FOR CENTRAL AND NORTHERN NEW YORK HIGHWAYShttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/ritchie-state-budget-includes-2-million-winter-storm-relief-central-and-northern-new-y
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: center; line-height: normal;" align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">Extra Funding is in Addition to a Record $20 Million in State Aid for Local Highways</span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">State Senator Patty Ritchie has announced that the new state spending plan includes extra aid for local highway departments that have had their budgets affected by this winter's severe weather.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">Contained in the new State Budget is an extra $2 million in aid for municipalities in the Central and Northern New York regions Senator Ritchie represents.&nbsp; The support is part $40 million in special, onetime funding allocated for local highway departments having to deal with the aftermath of a particularly brutal winter.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">“This year, the ice, snow and cold hammered Upstate New York, placing a heavy burden on highway departments having to deal with an increased amount of weather-related cleanup and damages,” said Senator Ritchie.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">“Earlier this year, I met with more than four dozen local highway officials from our region who requested extra help for critical maintenance and repair projects that would provide relief to local budgets—and to local taxpayers.&nbsp; I’m pleased that this year’s State Budget recognizes the unique challenges presented by our most recent winter by including extra aid for municipalities trying to make ends meet.”</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">The State Budget also includes major support for transportation projects as well as local road and bridge repairs and upgrades, including:</span></p>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[if !supportLists]--></p><p><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></p>
<!--[endif]--><!--[endif]--><p><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">A second year of record CHIPS (Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program) funding totaling $438 million for important local highway, road and bridge repair projects; and</span></p>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[if !supportLists]--></p><p><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></span></p>
<!--[endif]--><!--[endif]--><p><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">Support for the second year of the two-year $3.7 billion State DOT transportation capital plan which will be used to improve roads, bridges, rail, aviation and transit.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;;">To view a full breakdown of local highway aid and additional winter storm relief funding contained in the new State Budget, <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/217637294/Additional-Winter-Storm-Relief-included-in-State-Budget">click here.</a></span></p>
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<a href="/senator/patty-ritchie">Patty Ritchie</a> </div>
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<span class="date-display-single">Fri, 04/11/2014</span> </div>
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CitiesHighwaysLocal GovernmentTowns or CountiesTransportationVillagesFri, 11 Apr 2014 15:44:24 +0000Sarah Compo229071 at http://www.nysenate.govVernon, Oneida County to Receive 27 Percent Increase in VLT Aidhttp://www.nysenate.gov/press-release/vernon-oneida-county-receive-27-percent-increase-vlt-aid
<p>UTICA – The village and town of Vernon and Oneida County will receive 27 percent more aid for being the host of video lottery terminal (VLT) facilities in 2014-15, Sen. Joseph A. Griffo announced.</p>
<p>The budget includes the following aid for municipalities that host the Vernon Downs racino:</p>
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<li>Village of Vernon: $137,103, an increase of $29,379 from 2013-14.</li>
<li>Town of Vernon: $231,788, an increase of $49,669</li>
<li>Oneida County: $256,796, an increase of $55,027</li>
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<p>Host aid was cut entirely during the 2010 budget crisis, but is slowly being restored. In 2011, the Legislature restored funding to all communities at 45 percent of the amount they received in 2008-09. In 2013, the funding level was restored to 55 percent of the amount received in 2008-09. It is now at 70 percent restored.</p>
<p>Sen. Griffo has co-sponsored a bill (<a href="http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/S2120-2013" target="_blank">S2120</a>) that would fully restore aid to 2008-09 levels. That would give $195,861 to the village of Vernon; $331,125 to the town of Vernon and $366,851 to Oneida County.</p>
<p>“I am pleased that this aid to host municipalities was increased in the new budget, as it will reduce property taxes in both Vernon and Oneida County,” said Griffo. “My work is not complete, however. I will continue to advocate for Vernon and Oneida again receiving the aid they are rightfully entitled to under the original agreement.”</p>
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Local GovernmentTowns or CountiesVillagesWed, 09 Apr 2014 12:27:56 +0000Jude Seymour228821 at http://www.nysenate.gov